BLT Macaroni Salad (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 ounces elbow macaroni

→ Protein

02 - 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

→ Produce

03 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
04 - 1 cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
05 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions
06 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

→ Dressing

07 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1/2 cup sour cream
09 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
10 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
11 - 1 teaspoon honey
12 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
03 - Add cooled macaroni, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, chopped lettuce, green onions, and parsley to the bowl. Mix gently until evenly combined.
04 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
05 - Before serving, stir the salad. Add a splash of milk or extra mayonnaise if the dressing is dry. Serve chilled.

# Notes:

01 - For a tangier profile, increase apple cider vinegar by one tablespoon.
02 - Substitute cherry tomatoes with diced Roma tomatoes if unavailable.
03 - Use light mayonnaise and sour cream for a lighter dish.
04 - For a vegetarian alternative, replace bacon with sun-dried tomatoes or smoked paprika.